Graham and Kent were teammates at Oregon for four years in the 1970s. Graham served under Kent as an assistant for five years at St. Mary’s (1992-97) and at Oregon (1997-2002). Kent was hired at Washington State on Monday.

“Ernie’s one of my closest friends and this is a good opportunity for me,” Graham said. “It’s a good fit. This was a hard decision because we like everybody here. I’m very close to Geno (Ford). He gave me a chance to get back in the business (after getting fired at Boise State) and my family and I really appreciate that.”

Graham, 58, became Ford’s top assistant when Ford assumed the Bradley job in 2011. Graham worked with the offense and the big men.

“Greg has an opportunity to get reunited with his college roommate and former co-worker of nearly 20 years,” said Ford. “We appreciate Greg’s efforts and service to Bradley and our basketball program. I am happy for Greg and his family.

“He is a good coach and an even better person. We wish him much success.”

Ford said he’d be compiling a list of potential candidates and meeting with them over the next several weeks.

No timetable has been set for a replacement.

Graham said he and Kent would meet at the Final Four this weekend in Dallas to firm up his arrival plans.

“We loved it here and appreciate all the support the community and administration has given our program,” Graham said. “We really enjoyed our time here in Peoria.”